China Unveils Upgraded Tax Refund Policy to Boost Inbound Spending
Officials said the upgraded policy will cut wait times, allow paperless refunds from July 1, and expand the program to about 14,000 stores nationwide.
- On Monday, the State Council Information Office introduced the "2.0 version" of China's tax refund policy, with Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping stating the measures aim to expand refund coverage, streamline customs procedures, and improve digital services.
- China has accelerated efforts to attract foreign visitors through visa exemptions and payment improvements; in 2025, sales under the departure tax refund program nearly doubled, with 270,000 overseas travelers applying for refunds, quadrupling the 2024 figure.
- The number of tax refund stores nationwide has jumped to around 14,000, while applications below 10,000 yuan now face random inspections instead of mandatory checks, and the departure period for processing refunds extends to 28 days.
- Beginning July 1, travelers can process refunds without paper documents via integrated electronic systems; Li Jun, director of the Institute of International Trade in Services at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said the rules strengthen the "Shopping in China" campaign.
- Officials aim for full coverage in high-traffic areas and dedicated service sections at major trade fairs including the Canton Fair and the China International Import Expo, while Sheng noted the policy could create a "multiplier effect" as travelers continue spending after receiving refunds.
39 Articles
39 Articles
Economic Watch: China Improves Departure Tax Refund Services to Boost Inbound Consumption
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China Revises Departure Tax Refund Rules for Foreign Tourists
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